In Nangchen, it has traditionally been a high honor for a family to have a son become a monk, granting him the privilege to serve the community as a scholar and spiritual leader, and to transcend the hardships of everyday life. But to have a daughter become a nun has been considered a burden for a family, as she can no longer be married off in exchange for livestock, or bear children who can become workers on the family farm. It was believed that to educate a woman was a waste of valuable resources.

“Daughters of Wisdom” is an intimate portrait of these nuns, who are receiving unprecedented educational and religious training, and preserving their rich cultural heritage even as they slowly reshape it. Some shy, some outspoken, all committed to the often difficult life they have chosen, the nuns graciously allowed a camera in for a never-before-seen glimpse into their vibrant spiritual community and insight into their extraordinary lives.

Interview Opportunity: Members of the media will have the opportunity to interview the film’s director, Bari Pearlman.